THE Prime Minister has said that the death of Holly Newton in Hexham shows the Government still has work to do.

Rishi Sunak was speaking in Darlington as part of a visit to the North East.

Mr Sunak was asked what message he had for the families of knife crime victims in the region.

READ MORE: https://www.hexham-courant.co.uk/news/23286010.fundraiser-launched-memory-holly-newton-haltwhistle/

15-year-old Holly, of Haltwhistle, died after an alleged stabbing in the Priestpopple area of Hexham town centre, which also saw a 16-year-old sustain serious injuries.

Mr Sunak said: “My heart goes out to them, it’s tragic. 

“I have two young kids and I can’t imagine one of my kids or any young person losing their life in that way, it’s awful.”

“There will be more police officers on the streets of the North East,” he added. 

“It’s also about giving the police the powers they need, so when it comes to knife crime; stop and search is important. 

“In particular, we need to do a better job of tackling violence against women and girls.

"For far too long, too many women and girls have not felt as safe. We’ve got to do a better job of that.

“All these things that we didn’t tackle properly in the past, we’re in the process of improving and you should absolutely hold me to account on that. 

“I want all of you to walk around and feel safe, and when things don’t go right, justice happens and it happens quickly.

"I think we are making progress, and things are moving in the right direction, but the tragedy that you talked about showed us that we’ve got work to do.”

A boy, 16, appeared before the court today charged with murder, attempted murder and possession of a knife.

The Gateshead teen, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was remanded into youth detention accommodation until his next appearance at Newcastle Crown Court on Wednesday, February 1.

Mayor Derek Kennedy told the Hexham Courant: "The carrying of knives is concerning, so many lives will be damaged by the events."

MP Guy Oppperman added: "I remain shocked and appalled at the tragic death and my heart goes out to her family and friends who have suffered an unimaginable loss."